This Grilled Cod recipe is a delightful way to enjoy one of the ocean’s most delectable fish. The cod is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a zesty lemon butter sauce that enhances its natural flavors. Not only is this dish healthy and low in calories, but it also delivers a satisfying meal that is sure to impress family and friends alike. With its firm texture and mild taste, grilled cod is an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this grilled cod recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The marinade, enriched with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, infuses the fish with vibrant taste while keeping it moist and tender on the grill. It’s a quick and easy recipe that requires minimal prep time—perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous weekend get-togethers. Plus, it fits beautifully into various diets, whether you’re looking for a low-carb option, or simply trying to incorporate more lean proteins into your meals. This dish is not only delicious but also nourishing.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose Fresh Cod: When selecting cod, look for fillets that are firm and have a clean ocean smell. Fresh fish yields the best results.
- Marination: For the best flavor, allow the fish to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If time permits, marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for perfect cooking. This helps achieve those coveted grill marks and ensures even cooking.
- Oil the Grill Grates: Prevent sticking by brushing the grill grates with oil before placing the fish on them.
- Use a Fish Spatula: A fish spatula works wonders for flipping delicate fish fillets without breaking them apart.
Make Ahead Tips
To make your meal prep easier, you can marinate the cod a day in advance. Store the marinated fish in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before serving.
Recipe Variations
This grilled cod recipe is versatile, so feel free to switch up the marinades! You can try a sweet and spicy marinade with honey and chili powder, or a tropical twist with pineapple juice and ginger. If you’re looking for alternative cooking methods, you can also bake the cod in the oven or pan-sear it on the stovetop for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve the grilled cod on a large platter with lemon wedges and a drizzle of lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Complement it with a side of grilled vegetables, quinoa salad, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy cocktail, such as a gin and tonic with fresh lime, will enhance the flavors of the cod. As for side dishes, consider serving it alongside garlic roasted potatoes or a light pasta salad. For dessert, a refreshing sorbet or fruit salad would be a perfect finish.
How to Store
Leftover grilled cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cod tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil; it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out.
Equipment Needed
You will need a grill (gas or charcoal), a fish spatula for flipping, a mixing bowl for the marinade, and an airtight container for marinating. A meat thermometer is also helpful to ensure the cod is cooked to perfection.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the butter in the sauce and use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute instead. For a gluten-free version, ensure that all marinades and sauces you use are labeled gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, you can add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to the marinade for a refreshing twist. In colder months, consider using heartier spices like smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne to add warmth to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen cod? Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and grilling.
- What can I substitute for cod? Other white fish like haddock or tilapia can be used as alternatives.
- How long should I cook the cod? Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- What if I don’t have a grill? You can bake the cod in the oven at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes.
How To Make grilled cod recipe
Grilled Cod
This Grilled Cod recipe is a delightful way to enjoy one of the ocean’s most delectable fish.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for lemon butter sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Cod: Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the fish is well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Cod: Remove the fillets from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce (optional): In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
- Serve: Remove the cod from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges and drizzle with the lemon butter sauce, if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 370Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 114mgSodium 716mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 42g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Grilling cod is not just a cooking method; it’s an experience that brings out the best in this mild fish. With its straightforward preparation and delicious results, this grilled cod recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish promises to deliver satisfaction and flavor with every bite. Happy grilling!
